One child is dead after visiting the Oxford County Fair, according to his father.

WMTW spoke with Jon Guay, the father of Colton Guay, who confirmed that Colton died of HUS, hemolytic uremic syndrome, a week after being admitted to Maine Medical Center for severe diarrhea.

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Hemolytic uremic syndrome is caused by a bacteria that releases a toxin that attacks the kidneys and other organs.

According to Jon Guay, it is believed that Colton contracted the bacteria thought a simple interaction with farm animals at the fair.

Jon Guay

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention said two children were hospitalized with symptoms associated with E. coli.

According to John Martins, the public health information officer, the Maine CDC has been investigating for any common links to the cases, and the search effort continues.

The Maine CDC is working with the state veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to investigate whether each child attended the Oxford Fair and visited the animal barns and petting zoo.

A representative for the Oxford County Fair said it is working with the state veterinarian, Dr. Michele Walsh. The assistant state veterinarian told WMTW that the office is working with the CDC and is discussing sampling the livestock for the bacteria.

"It's a challenge to get a smoking gun," Walsh said about testing animals. The problem with testing animals, Walsh said is healthy animals carry strands of E.coli just like humans carry some strands of E.coli.

Jon Guay

Walsh said the office spends all year educating and staying in contact with fairs reminding them that, "livestock are for viewing not for petting." Walsh said the office ensures the fairs have plenty of visible signage reminding people to wash their hands if they do come into contact with animals. Walsh said the office verifies that all animals in attendance at fairs are healthy.

Martins advises those who are exposed to animals and their environment to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer can be used.